The search party returned at dawn.

The gates creaked open, letting in a wave of tired knights, dirt-covered gear, and the low murmur of relief. You waited at the very front, hands cold despite the morning sun.

You’d been separated from Varka’s expedition after a sudden collapse in the ruins — your escape was quick, but word reached him long before you did.

And Varka… did not take it well.

He dismounted his huge wolf, scanning the crowd with sharp, frantic eyes.

His head snapped toward the sound. The tension in his shoulders evaporated in an instant, replaced by shock… then overwhelming relief.

He said your name like it anchored him to the ground.

He strode toward you, armor clinking, but his steps were too fast, too urgent — and before you could brace yourself, his arms wrapped around you with crushing warmth.

He held you to his chest like he feared you might vanish between heartbeats.